API Function

[Former Member]

hi,

what is the difference between Function module and API Function in BAPI Concept.

Points will be rewarded .

thanks and regards .

soorya.k

[Former Member]

BAPI stands for Business API(Application Program Interface).

Function Modules:

Function modules are ABAP routines that are stored in a central function library. They are not application-specific, and available systemwide. The ABAP Workbench comes with a large number of standard function modules.

Some Busniess Logic thats needs repeated execution in System are developed into FM. So Reusibility is the major advantage and no repeated programming.

All related FMs are grouped in Function Groups..Normally used with the SAP system .

Business API(Application Program Interface).

BAPI enable access to SAP functions across formal, stable and dialog-free interfaces. These interfaces can be used by external applications developed by customers and complementary software partners as well as by other SAP applications.

BAPIs are defined as API methods of SAP Business Object Types. These object types are used to enable object-based communication between components. Business objects and their BAPIs enable object orientation to be used in central information processing in companies. For example, you can reuse existing functions and data, achieve trouble-free technical interoperability, and implement non-SAP components.

Applications can use BAPIs to directly access the application layer of the SAP System and, as clients, applications can use the business logic of the SAP System. BAPIs provide the client with an object-oriented view of the application objects, without needing to know the implementation details.

Reusibility is the major advantage

Even non-SAP application can access SAP system using BAPI for executing certain Business Functionality

Basically BAPI are designed for the 3rd Software to communicate with SAP system for accessing,creating or modifying some business data lying on the SAP system !